Illinois Abortion Clinics Gain Renewed Support Despite Republican Pushback

Providers and advocates work to ensure access to abortion care despite new obstacles

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Two years after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Illinois has become a haven for abortion access as neighboring states implement near-total bans. While there are efforts to protect and expand abortion rights in Illinois, some state lawmakers are pushing for increased restrictions. Nonprofit organizations like the Midwest Access Coalition work to bridge logistical and financial barriers for patients seeking care, but they face ongoing challenges from Republican legislators.

Why it matters

The overturning of Roe v. Wade has forced thousands of patients from neighboring states to seek abortion care in Illinois, putting a strain on the state's providers. Illinois has taken steps to protect and expand access, but faces persistent efforts by Republican lawmakers to roll back those protections, highlighting the ongoing battle over reproductive rights across the country.

The details

Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, 13 states have implemented near-total abortion bans, forcing patients like Abbey Hall to travel to Illinois for care. In 2024, nearly a quarter of all out-of-state abortions took place in Illinois. Nonprofit organizations like the Midwest Access Coalition work to cover travel expenses, medical costs, and childcare for patients seeking care. However, some state lawmakers, such as Sen. Terri Bryant, are pushing for increased restrictions, including bills aimed at deterring abortions. Despite the Republican pushback, advocates and providers maintain the need for abortion access in Illinois and across the country.

  • In 2024, nearly a quarter of all out-of-state abortions took place in Illinois.
  • In 2025, Gov. JB Pritzker implemented a shield law that protects all Illinois health care workers from being prosecuted in Illinois or other states for performing abortions.
  • On Tuesday, Illinois marked National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day.

The players

Abbey Hall

A mother of two from Carmel, Indiana who had to travel to Illinois to receive the abortion care she needed after discovering a fetal defect that would make her daughter's life unviable.

Planned Parenthood of Illinois

A healthcare provider that sees more than 100,000 patients per year, 30% of which are for abortions.

Midwest Access Coalition

A nonprofit organization that works to bridge logistical and financial barriers for patients seeking abortion care, including covering travel expenses, medical costs, and childcare.

Sen. Terri Bryant

A Republican state senator who has sponsored multiple bills aimed at restricting abortion access, including the Ultrasound Opportunity Act.

Catherine Degen

A CARLA nurse coordinator at Rush Hospital in Chicago who helps coordinate trained volunteers to provide required assistance for patients seeking abortion care.

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What they’re saying

“I felt dehumanized; I felt like a criminal. I would make the same decision 100 times out of 100.”

— Abbey Hall (Indiana Capital Chronicle)

“There are just a million and one things that stop people from accessing care, and that's been the anti-choice movement's goal for the past 50 years.”

— Alison Dreith, Director of Strategic Partnerships, Midwest Access Coalition (Capitol News Illinois)

“My hope would be that something like the CARLA program could expand to other places because I think it would be incredibly helpful for us to exist in other parts of the country. We're so happy to be here in Illinois, but it's needed everywhere.”

— Catherine Degen, CARLA Nurse Coordinator, Rush Hospital in Chicago (Capitol News Illinois)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.